Often credited for introducing the West to sushi and teppan-yaki (teppan meaning ‘steel grill’ and yaki meaning ‘broiled), the founder of Benihana ‘Rocky’ Aoki first opened its doors in 1964. Nowadays, these infamous restaurants are synonymous with an enthralling and unforgettable dining experience. During a meal at Benihana, guests are sat at tables with a hibachi grill at the centre and look on as their orders are sliced, diced and flipped in mid-air. If you’re lucky, there may even be an onion fire show, too.
The dining room is a vibrant space featuring Japanese-inspired décor, with neutral tones, soft lighting and high tables wrapped around the notorious grills, where the expert chefs churn out hibachi dishes. The lunch menu is perfect for a quick stop off, and diners can enjoy grilled plates of salmon, teriyaki steak and filet mignon, which all come with a ginger salad, prawn appetiser, vegetables and rice.
If you’ll be settling in for the evening, the dinner menu has plenty to whet your appetite. Start off with a selection of small dishes such as chicken gyoza, prawn tempura, spring rolls, or sushi, such as nigiri and sashimi. For the main event, there is a variety of meat, fish and vegetable dishes which are cooked in front of the diner, or go for one of the speciality plates which includes enticing combinations like filet mignon and miso black cod, chicken and prawns, and chateaubriand, scallops and lobster tail.
To accompany your theatrical meal, there’s plenty of Japanese sake at a range of prices as well as a modest wine list, most of which are available by the glass. Be sure to try something off its signature cocktail list too, such as the Passion Dragon which is comprised of spiced rum, mango juice, lychee, passion fruit and ginger beer.